EP2955879A1 - A method and system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address - Google Patents

A method and system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2955879A1
EP2955879A1 EP14172234.8A EP14172234A EP2955879A1 EP 2955879 A1 EP2955879 A1 EP 2955879A1 EP 14172234 A EP14172234 A EP 14172234A EP 2955879 A1 EP2955879 A1 EP 2955879A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
addressee
physical
electronic information
information data
physical location
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP14172234.8A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2955879B1 (en
Inventor
Koen Hoebeek
Geert Van Boven
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Roularta Media Group Nv
Original Assignee
Geo Communication Group bvba
Geo Comm Group bvba
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Geo Communication Group bvba, Geo Comm Group bvba filed Critical Geo Communication Group bvba
Priority to EP14172234.8A priority Critical patent/EP2955879B1/en
Priority to BE2015/0170A priority patent/BE1025461B1/en
Priority to US14/738,141 priority patent/US20150365367A1/en
Publication of EP2955879A1 publication Critical patent/EP2955879A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2955879B1 publication Critical patent/EP2955879B1/en
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L51/00User-to-user messaging in packet-switching networks, transmitted according to store-and-forward or real-time protocols, e.g. e-mail
    • H04L51/21Monitoring or handling of messages
    • H04L51/222Monitoring or handling of messages using geographical location information, e.g. messages transmitted or received in proximity of a certain spot or area
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L51/00User-to-user messaging in packet-switching networks, transmitted according to store-and-forward or real-time protocols, e.g. e-mail
    • H04L51/42Mailbox-related aspects, e.g. synchronisation of mailboxes
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L51/00User-to-user messaging in packet-switching networks, transmitted according to store-and-forward or real-time protocols, e.g. e-mail
    • H04L51/21Monitoring or handling of messages
    • H04L51/224Monitoring or handling of messages providing notification on incoming messages, e.g. pushed notifications of received messages

Definitions

  • US2007043846 comprises an interface operable to receive information that is to be distributed to a geographic locator address; and an electronic content distribution module operatively coupled to the interface and operable to determine an electronic address that is uniquely associated with the geographic locator address, and to make electronic content, which comprises the received information, available through the determined electronic address.
  • a drawback of this system is that geographic locator has its own electronic mailbox, such that content distributed to a plurality of mailboxes has to be stored in each mailbox required high amounts of storing space in the cloud or elsewhere.
  • the system requires a secure host system controlling access to the electronic content through the electronic address in accordance with a security policy.
  • the security policy may require at least one stage of user authentication.
  • Another benefit is that distributing content does not require high amounts of storing space in the cloud or elsewhere.
  • the present invention allows anyone to reach more individuals faster, more ecological, more efficient and at an affordable cost. It enables a sender to deliver messages, invitations, folders for free or much cheaper than before. It provides better control of the messages and has a larger reach. An addressee can select only the desired information, there is no waste and the info can be forwarded easily to others.
  • the present invention is directed to a method for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising: storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID in a database, storing a collection of electronic information data packets in a digital library, each data packet associated with a pointer, running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  • a stored information data packet comprises an electronic information data packet uploaded by a sender and the sender's instructions defining the distribution area.
  • said query retrieves pointers as a function of the sender's instruction associated with stored data packets. Further, said query retrieves pointers as a function of the addressee's preferences and/or said addressee interface stores addressee preferences relating to electronic information data packets classification.
  • an addressee accesses the addressee interface by input of his physical mailbox address, or its geographical physical mailbox coordinates, or by selecting his physical mailbox on a map.
  • the addressee reacts on the content of an electronic information data packet or requests further electronic or physical information regarding an electronic information data packet from the sender of said electronic information data packet.
  • the present invention is further directed to a system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising: a database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID, a digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer, a processing unit for running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  • said database comprises means for retrieving a collection of physical locations from a cadastral database.
  • a sender is enabled to upload an electronic information data packet within the digital library and the processing unit comprises filters for defining the distribution area based on the sender's instructions. Further, said processing unit is adapted for defining a distribution area by making a selection of physical locations, or by selecting an area on a map, or by selecting a perimeter around a physical location.
  • said processing unit comprises filters for defining the distribution area by demographic statistics, or by statistics generated by the addressee's preferences.
  • said processing unit is adapted for running the query retrieving pointers as a function of the sender's instruction associated with stored data packets.
  • the system further comprises a portal enabling an addressee to access the addressee interface by input of his physical mailbox address, or its geographical physical mailbox coordinates, or by selecting his physical mailbox on a map.
  • the present invention is further directed to a computer-readable medium containing: a database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID, a digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer, a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers
  • geographical coordinates should be understood as the values of the latitude and longitude for identifying a physical terrestrial location.
  • the present invention is directed to a method for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising: storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID in a database, storing a collection of electronic information data packets in a digital library, each data packet associated with a pointer, running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  • the method according to the present invention stores a database comprising physical locations, the addressees are identified and stored without an individual manual registering or log-in. Further, based on such a database and the query, the method enables addressees to retrieve only the electronic data packets that are of interest in their physical location in a very easy and efficient way and at any convenient time.
  • targeting people having direct contact with a geographical location is done easy and efficient and without relying on manual subscriptions or direct requests and definitely without relying on physical delivery services. Furthermore, addressees have at all times direct and easy access to a complete electronic data packet set for their physical location.
  • Another advantage is that addressees do not have to rely on the physical delivery of a hard copy or on the physical security of their physical mailbox.
  • a further advantage of a method according to the present invention is the reduced storing space needed. By assigning a pointer to each electronic data packet, only one main data packets database is needed, the selection being performed through the query based on the physical location.
  • the physical location contains information regarding the physical address data selected from a group comprising: country name, province, city name, postal code, street name, street number, Postal Office box, geographical coordinates: latitude and/or longitude, or a combination thereof.
  • the method retrieves a collection of physical locations from a cadastral database either public or private.
  • the method can further retrieve and store physical locations from a series of databases. It is not to be excluded that such a database has the capabilities to store new physical locations, manually added.
  • the physical locations are associated with physical mailbox addresses or Postal Office Boxes or geographical coordinates such as latitude and longitude of such physical mailbox.
  • a sender is able to upload an electronic information data packet and define instructions when the pointer associated with such data packed should be retrieved on the addressee interface, by defining the distribution area. Therefore, when an addressee identifies himself with a physical location within the defined distribution area, the pointer associated with the electronic information data packed will be made visible on the addressees interface. If such a location is not within the identified distribution area, the pointer will not be visible on the addressee interface. Due to the specificities of the query, the addressee will have a complete collection of electronic information data packets that are of interest for his physical location.
  • the sender of an electronic information data packet defines the distribution area through a method selected from a group comprising: making a selection of physical locations by manually imputing such physical locations, selecting an area on a map, or by selecting a perimeter around a physical location, or by selecting a radius around a physical location, or a combination thereof.
  • the sender defines the distribution area by taking into account demographic statistics such as statistics on average income, or nationality majority, or by statistics generated by the addressee's preferences such as existing or previously defined filters (for example: the type of service, product or shop) or business statistics. By applying such a selection criteria, the sender makes sure that the information data packet reaches a specific target group.
  • the method queries the database comprising the collection of physical locations and identifies all physical mailbox addresses or geographical physical mailbox coordinates in the defined distribution area.
  • the method applies a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the sender's instruction associated with stored data packets, by verifying the location of the addressee against the sender's instructions.
  • an addressee is able to define an area for which he/she would want to have electronic information data packets. Therefore, in case such a person is commuting on a regular basis between two physical locations, he/she will have access to the needed information every time the addressee interface is accessed.
  • an addressee is able to upload an electronic data packet.
  • the method classifies the electronic information data packets.
  • the method classifies the electronic information data packets relative to content, such classifications including: shopping, leisure, restaurants, events, or file extension, or size, or time stamp (time availability), or a combination thereof.
  • the addressee is further able to define filters on his/her addressee interface in order to have only information of interest the next time he accesses such interface. It is to be understood that the addresses is able to modify said filters at any time.
  • the query retrieves pointers as a function of the addressee's preferences and is further storing addressee preferences relating to the classifications.
  • the addressee is further able to define filters on specific locations of interest.
  • said addressee For accessing the addressee interface, said addressee inputs his physical mailbox address, or its geographical physical mailbox coordinates, or the addressee selects his physical mailbox on a map. By performing such a step, the physical location of a physical mailbox is being connected to a virtual space wherein pointers take place of actual paper.
  • the method asks the addressee to input additional credentials, such credentials being selected from a group comprising: an existing e-mail account (such as: Gmail, Yahoo mail, etc.) or an existing account (such as: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.) or a method of authenticating the place of residence, such as: by sending a code or a password through conventional paper mail, such a code or a word being used as authentication upon the following access of the interface.
  • additional credentials such credentials being selected from a group comprising: an existing e-mail account (such as: Gmail, Yahoo mail, etc.) or an existing account (such as: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.) or a method of authenticating the place of residence, such as: by sending a code or a password through conventional paper mail, such a code or a word being used as authentication upon the following access of the interface.
  • the same credentials are required if the addressee uploads an electronic data packet.
  • the physical location ID of an addressee is generated by interpolating the latitude coordinates and/or the longitude coordinates and/or the physical location address such as: the country and/or the province and/or the city name and/or the street name and/or the street number and/or the building identifier and/or Postal Office Box.
  • the result of said interpolating is a unique character vector which is further stored within the database.
  • characters are associated with numbers such that the name of the city will have a numerical code associated and/or the name of street will have a numerical code associated.
  • the result of said interpolating is a number string in the format of integer or big integer.
  • the method according to the present invention will run a plurality of queries, from macro to micro query: first query to retrieve pointers intersecting with the addressee's physical location; from the pointers resulting from the first query, retrieving the pointers intersecting with the addressee's preferences by a second query, etc.
  • the addressee can react on the content of an electronic information data packet or request further electronic or physical information (coupon, paper brochures, etc.) on an electronic information data packet.
  • the sender of the electronic information data packet can include such a possibility through the defined instructions.
  • the present invention is further directed to a system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising: a database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID, a digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer, a processing unit for running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  • said system comprises means for receiving physical locations from a cadastral database.
  • a cadastral database is a public or a private database, or a combination thereof.
  • the information retrieved from said cadastral database comprises physical location information of physical mailboxes such as physical mailbox addresses or geographical physical mailbox coordinates.
  • the system according to the present invention enables a sender to upload an electronic information data packet within the digital library.
  • said processing unit comprises filters for defining the distribution area based on the sender's instructions. Based on such instructions, the pointer associated with an electronic information data packet reaches the geographical locations included in said distribution area. Further, said processing unit is adapted for defining distribution area by making a selection of physical locations, or by selecting an area on a map, or by selecting a perimeter around a physical location.
  • the processing unit of said system allows the sender to define filters for defining the distribution area by demographic statistics such as statistics on average income, or nationality majority, or by statistics generated by the addressee's preferences such as existing or previously defined filters (for example: the type of service, product or shop) or business statistics. By applying such a selection criteria, the sender makes sure that the information data packet reaches a specific target group.
  • the processing unit is adapted for running the query retrieving pointers as a function of the sender's instruction associated with stored data packets.
  • the digital library comprises means for classifying the electronic information data packets.
  • the method classifies the electronic information data packets relative to content, such classifications including: shopping, leisure, restaurants, events, or file extension, or size, or time stamp (time availability), or a combination thereof.
  • the database enables storing addressee preferences relating to the classifications.
  • the system comprises a portal enabling an addressee to access the addressee interface by input of his physical mailbox address, or its geographical physical mailbox coordinates, or by selecting his physical mailbox on a map.
  • the system when such addressee wants to upload an electronic information data packet or when said addressee defines filters on the addressee interface, the system requires input of his/her credentials.
  • credentials are selected from a group comprising: an existing e-mail account (such as: Gmail, Yahoo mail, etc.) or an existing account (such as: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.) or a method of authenticating the place of residence, such as: by sending a code or a password through conventional paper mail, such a code or a word being used as authentication upon the following access of the interface.
  • the system according to the present invention comprises means for enabling an addressee to react on the content of an electronic information data packet or request further electronic or physical information (coupon, paper brochure, etc.) on an electronic information data packet.
  • the sender of the electronic information data packet can include such a possibility through the defined instructions.
  • the present invention is further directed to a computer-readable medium containing: a database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID, a digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer, a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  • the present invention optimizes various interactions between a virtual mailbox and a physical mailbox as described below.
  • the virtual mailbox is to be understood as the web based addressee interface based on the physical location of a physical mailbox.
  • addressee In order to view the content of this addressee interface a personal and/or collective address is required. This can be a simple 2-click registration on a web-page identifying the addressee. Such addressee interface address might exist for a few seconds up to infinity. The legal user of the personal and/or collective address is referred to as "addressee".
  • An addressee interface is to be understood as a virtual mailbox for which "personal and/or collective addressee rights" exist, like a home post box, personal delivery point, shared delivery point or whatever other physical deliveries point. Such addressee rights might exist for a few seconds up to infinity.
  • the legal owner of the addressee rights is referred to as "address owner”.
  • the ownership of the addressee interface might belong to the address owner or might belong to a third party that has granted the legal addressee rights of the physical deliveries point to the address owner.
  • addressee and the address owner can be one and the same or can be different. If they are different they should act collective. Together they are referred to as "address managers".
  • the registration will exist for specific transactions and for a period as defined by the address managers during the registration process.
  • the registration can be cancelled by the address owner or by the addressee or by a third party with legal rights to intervene in this matter.
  • the present invention provides digital platform is constructed to upload and distribute messages as well as other information to a community with which the addressee or address managers only have geographical connection.
  • the connection by portal registration will allow the addressee able to check their addressee interface and to drop messages to the people as a digital alternative to a note in their real mailbox, but to a broader audience - e.g. to all addresses in their street, village, or a defined circle around their physical location.
  • the type of messages can be just notes, invitations, as well as news or commercial.
  • This innovative digital service responds to a need of individuals on occasions where they want to reach other people in the neighbourhood. For global brands, retailers and government the use of this service can result into large savings on communication costs.
  • the service will allow users to choose for virtual marketing folders instead of physical folders from brands. This choice will avoid physical delivery at physical mailbox. This is guided by the service thru mobile/portable notification of the delivery boy.
  • the present invention can also be integrated into other internet services that are more commonly used and can provide an overview of the virtual mailbox content at regular intervals to the social network of choice (like Facebook, Twitter,...), to a personal email address or he can opt to use the present invention for mobile devices to consult his addressee interface.
  • the back-end is driven by an SQL database of all geographical addresses linked to a virtual mailbox. It is equipped with all user interactions, reporting and metrics tools, payment transactions and an API to connect other 3rd party services.
  • the front-end can be accessed by a webbrowser or a mobile app for iOS, Android and Windows RT.
  • the basic model of the service is 'freemium'. All messages for non-commercial use within a fixed time-frame and to a limited number of users may be free of charge. This means uploading and distributing information may be free to use for most senders and small non-profit organizations.
  • a sender of query accesses a web page and identifies himself through his physical address corresponding to his personal identification. Upon accessing the option for providing a query, the system requests a further check through an existing log-in information or through a physical letter accompanied by a code that is sent to that particular physical address.
  • the system recognizes the personal identification as allowed to provide a query.
  • the sender defines a name for the query and, in case of an announcement, the sender is able to add a text message in a designated space. If there are documents to be attached to the query, the system according to the present invention allows the sender to attach such document no matter their format.
  • the sender is asked about the time duration that will be associated with such a query, the sender being able to select either an end date through manual input of the date in an indicated format or a drop-down type of calendar, or by selecting a time frame like for example a month, two months, half a year or so forth, or a start date and an end date though a drop-down type of calendar.
  • the sender is able to select the category under which it will be stored by the system.
  • the sender of the query will further define the geographical area associated with such a query by choosing a parameter selected from the group comprising: a street name, or a postal code, or a city, or a country or a combination thereof. Another possibility of selecting the geographical area associated with the query is directly delimiting on a map provided by the system by using tools like: drawing a line or a circle or a non-defined shape on said map.
  • the sender can further instruct the system to consider the addresses retrieved from the database within the selected geographical area, or the sender can further define a radius around the defined geographical area. The system will then consider all the addresses retrieved from the database within the radius defined and the ones within the selected geographical area as able to see the query.
  • the system will check if such an address is within the identified geographical area. In case the check is positive, the system makes the query visible for him/her. If the check is negative, the query is not visible for the person.
  • the system After a sender of an electronic information data packet adds a query though the method identified above, the system counts the number of addresses included in the defined geographical area and at the same time makes them visible on a map.
  • the system determines the number of credits the sender will have to have on his identification page. In case the sender has no credits on his identification page, the system will require the total amount of credits to be added and locked for that query throughout the selected time duration. In case the sender has on his identification page an amount of credits, the system will subtract from the available number the amount approximated for the query and lock them and in case the amount is not sufficient, will ask the user to add the rest on his identification page.
  • the system may be able to approximate the number of views for such a query by using a statistic function applied on previous queries from the same category, preferably from the same area, but it should be understood that such statistic functions can be applied in different geographical areas as well.
  • the system asks the sender to lock the amount of credits corresponding to the approximation.
  • the system increments a counter and subtracts a credit.
  • the system creates an overview and updates the identification page of the sender.
  • the counter can be a dedicated counter for each sender, including information on all queries added by said sender.
  • the system according to the present invention creates an overview of the credits over a determined period of time considering the complete set of queries or each individual query, or over a specific geographic area like for example: over a country, a province, a city, a neighborhood or a street.
  • the sender is able to select the type of counter and analysis to be performed on his/her identification page.

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a method for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising: storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID in a database, storing a collection of electronic information data packets in a digital library, each data packet associated with a pointer, running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
The present invention is further directed to a system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising: a database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID, a digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer, a processing unit for running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.

Description

    Background of the invention:
  • Thanks to the widespread availability of e-mail, Facebook, Linkedin, etc. you can connect with friends, family, business partners in a very fast and effective way. Touching base with your uncle in New York is a piece of cake. Using Facebook it takes only a blink of an eye to inform your friends all over the world that you have just enjoyed a delicious pistachio ice cream.
  • However it is much harder to communicate with your neighbours as most of them will not be included in networks. If you move into a new area and you would like to invite your future neighbours, you need to go outside, walk or bike though the streets and put a note in every single physical mailbox. Companies wanting to announce topics of general interest to the residents, they all suffer the same pain.
  • If you are only aware of the people's street, neighbourhood, village, you have to put a note in their -from real atoms constructed- mailbox, there is no existing digital alternative.
  • Hence global brands, retailers, governmental organizations, political parties and small businesses continue to drop huge amounts of unaddressed messages and folders in people's mailboxes to spread news, to make announcements or to promote their business. For example, an advertiser that wishes to target a particular geographic area can relatively easily have information delivered to all mailing addresses in a neighborhood based on street addresses or a postal code for instance. Although an electronic campaign would often save both resources and costs, conducting a geographically targeted campaign using electronic addresses would be difficult without prior knowledge of a complete, accurate and current electronic address for every intended recipient.
  • In an attempt to provide a solution for the above problem US2007043846 (CANADA POST CORP) comprises an interface operable to receive information that is to be distributed to a geographic locator address; and an electronic content distribution module operatively coupled to the interface and operable to determine an electronic address that is uniquely associated with the geographic locator address, and to make electronic content, which comprises the received information, available through the determined electronic address.
  • A drawback of this system is that geographic locator has its own electronic mailbox, such that content distributed to a plurality of mailboxes has to be stored in each mailbox required high amounts of storing space in the cloud or elsewhere.
  • Further, the system requires a secure host system controlling access to the electronic content through the electronic address in accordance with a security policy. The security policy may require at least one stage of user authentication.
  • Considering the above it is an object of the present invention to provide a digital platform to send messages or information to a community with which you only have a geographical connection.
  • It is an object of the present invention to provide a digital platform wherein addressees just need to enter the digital portal by introduction of their address (street, nr & city), without further authentication.
  • Another benefit is that distributing content does not require high amounts of storing space in the cloud or elsewhere.
  • In addition the present invention allows anyone to reach more individuals faster, more ecological, more efficient and at an affordable cost. It enables a sender to deliver messages, invitations, folders for free or much cheaper than before. It provides better control of the messages and has a larger reach. An addressee can select only the desired information, there is no waste and the info can be forwarded easily to others.
  • Summary of the invention:
  • The present invention is directed to a method for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising: storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID in a database, storing a collection of electronic information data packets in a digital library, each data packet associated with a pointer, running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  • Preferably, the physical locations are physical mailbox addresses or geographical physical mailbox coordinates. Further, a stored information data packet comprises an electronic information data packet uploaded by a sender and the sender's instructions defining the distribution area.
  • In a preferred embodiment according to the present invention said query retrieves pointers as a function of the sender's instruction associated with stored data packets. Further, said query retrieves pointers as a function of the addressee's preferences and/or said addressee interface stores addressee preferences relating to electronic information data packets classification.
  • According to the present invention an addressee accesses the addressee interface by input of his physical mailbox address, or its geographical physical mailbox coordinates, or by selecting his physical mailbox on a map.
  • Preferably, the addressee reacts on the content of an electronic information data packet or requests further electronic or physical information regarding an electronic information data packet from the sender of said electronic information data packet.
  • The present invention is further directed to a system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising: a database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID, a digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer, a processing unit for running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  • Preferably, said database comprises means for retrieving a collection of physical locations from a cadastral database.
  • In an embodiment according to the present invention a sender is enabled to upload an electronic information data packet within the digital library and the processing unit comprises filters for defining the distribution area based on the sender's instructions. Further, said processing unit is adapted for defining a distribution area by making a selection of physical locations, or by selecting an area on a map, or by selecting a perimeter around a physical location.
  • In another embodiment according to the present invention said processing unit comprises filters for defining the distribution area by demographic statistics, or by statistics generated by the addressee's preferences.
  • Accordingly, said processing unit is adapted for running the query retrieving pointers as a function of the sender's instruction associated with stored data packets.
  • Preferably, the system further comprises a portal enabling an addressee to access the addressee interface by input of his physical mailbox address, or its geographical physical mailbox coordinates, or by selecting his physical mailbox on a map.
  • The present invention is further directed to a computer-readable medium containing: a database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID, a digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer, a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers
  • Description of the invention:
  • Further, geographical coordinates should be understood as the values of the latitude and longitude for identifying a physical terrestrial location.
  • The present invention is directed to a method for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising: storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID in a database, storing a collection of electronic information data packets in a digital library, each data packet associated with a pointer, running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  • Indeed, because the method according to the present invention stores a database comprising physical locations, the addressees are identified and stored without an individual manual registering or log-in. Further, based on such a database and the query, the method enables addressees to retrieve only the electronic data packets that are of interest in their physical location in a very easy and efficient way and at any convenient time.
  • Further, in case the addressee is changing the physical location he/she will have immediate access to the information of interest based on the new physical location and without having to manually request a change to be applied within the stored database.
  • By implementing such a method, targeting people having direct contact with a geographical location is done easy and efficient and without relying on manual subscriptions or direct requests and definitely without relying on physical delivery services. Furthermore, addressees have at all times direct and easy access to a complete electronic data packet set for their physical location.
  • Another advantage is that addressees do not have to rely on the physical delivery of a hard copy or on the physical security of their physical mailbox.
  • A further advantage of a method according to the present invention is the reduced storing space needed. By assigning a pointer to each electronic data packet, only one main data packets database is needed, the selection being performed through the query based on the physical location.
  • Preferably, the physical location contains information regarding the physical address data selected from a group comprising: country name, province, city name, postal code, street name, street number, Postal Office box, geographical coordinates: latitude and/or longitude, or a combination thereof.
  • For a more easy retrieval of all relevant physical locations, the method according to the present invention retrieves a collection of physical locations from a cadastral database either public or private. The method can further retrieve and store physical locations from a series of databases. It is not to be excluded that such a database has the capabilities to store new physical locations, manually added.
  • In an embodiment according to the present invention the physical locations are associated with physical mailbox addresses or Postal Office Boxes or geographical coordinates such as latitude and longitude of such physical mailbox.
  • In another embodiment according to the present invention, a sender is able to upload an electronic information data packet and define instructions when the pointer associated with such data packed should be retrieved on the addressee interface, by defining the distribution area. Therefore, when an addressee identifies himself with a physical location within the defined distribution area, the pointer associated with the electronic information data packed will be made visible on the addressees interface. If such a location is not within the identified distribution area, the pointer will not be visible on the addressee interface. Due to the specificities of the query, the addressee will have a complete collection of electronic information data packets that are of interest for his physical location.
  • The sender of an electronic information data packet defines the distribution area through a method selected from a group comprising: making a selection of physical locations by manually imputing such physical locations, selecting an area on a map, or by selecting a perimeter around a physical location, or by selecting a radius around a physical location, or a combination thereof.
  • In a further embodiment according to the present invention, the sender defines the distribution area by taking into account demographic statistics such as statistics on average income, or nationality majority, or by statistics generated by the addressee's preferences such as existing or previously defined filters (for example: the type of service, product or shop) or business statistics. By applying such a selection criteria, the sender makes sure that the information data packet reaches a specific target group.
  • When a sender defines the distribution area, the method queries the database comprising the collection of physical locations and identifies all physical mailbox addresses or geographical physical mailbox coordinates in the defined distribution area.
  • When an addressee accesses the addressee interface by imputing his/her geographical address, the method applies a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the sender's instruction associated with stored data packets, by verifying the location of the addressee against the sender's instructions.
  • In a further embodiment according to the present invention, an addressee is able to define an area for which he/she would want to have electronic information data packets. Therefore, in case such a person is commuting on a regular basis between two physical locations, he/she will have access to the needed information every time the addressee interface is accessed.
  • In a further embodiment according to the present invention an addressee is able to upload an electronic data packet.
  • For an easier retrieve of information, the method according to the present invention classifies the electronic information data packets. In a further embodiment, the method classifies the electronic information data packets relative to content, such classifications including: shopping, leisure, restaurants, events, or file extension, or size, or time stamp (time availability), or a combination thereof.
  • The addressee is further able to define filters on his/her addressee interface in order to have only information of interest the next time he accesses such interface. It is to be understood that the addresses is able to modify said filters at any time. By defining such filters, when the addressee accesses his/her addressee interface, the query retrieves pointers as a function of the addressee's preferences and is further storing addressee preferences relating to the classifications. The addressee is further able to define filters on specific locations of interest.
  • For accessing the addressee interface, said addressee inputs his physical mailbox address, or its geographical physical mailbox coordinates, or the addressee selects his physical mailbox on a map. By performing such a step, the physical location of a physical mailbox is being connected to a virtual space wherein pointers take place of actual paper.
  • In a further embodiment according to the present invention, if said addressee creates filters on his/her interface, the method asks the addressee to input additional credentials, such credentials being selected from a group comprising: an existing e-mail account (such as: Gmail, Yahoo mail, etc.) or an existing account (such as: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.) or a method of authenticating the place of residence, such as: by sending a code or a password through conventional paper mail, such a code or a word being used as authentication upon the following access of the interface. The same credentials are required if the addressee uploads an electronic data packet.
  • In another embodiment according to the present invention, the physical location ID of an addressee is generated by interpolating the latitude coordinates and/or the longitude coordinates and/or the physical location address such as: the country and/or the province and/or the city name and/or the street name and/or the street number and/or the building identifier and/or Postal Office Box. The result of said interpolating is a unique character vector which is further stored within the database.
  • In a further embodiment, characters are associated with numbers such that the name of the city will have a numerical code associated and/or the name of street will have a numerical code associated. In such a case, the result of said interpolating is a number string in the format of integer or big integer.
  • Further, when a person accesses his/her addressee interface, the method according to the present invention will run a plurality of queries, from macro to micro query: first query to retrieve pointers intersecting with the addressee's physical location; from the pointers resulting from the first query, retrieving the pointers intersecting with the addressee's preferences by a second query, etc.
  • In another embodiment according to the present invention the addressee can react on the content of an electronic information data packet or request further electronic or physical information (coupon, paper brochures, etc.) on an electronic information data packet. The sender of the electronic information data packet can include such a possibility through the defined instructions.
  • The present invention is further directed to a system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising: a database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID, a digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer, a processing unit for running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  • Further, said system comprises means for receiving physical locations from a cadastral database. Such cadastral database is a public or a private database, or a combination thereof. The information retrieved from said cadastral database comprises physical location information of physical mailboxes such as physical mailbox addresses or geographical physical mailbox coordinates.
  • The system according to the present invention enables a sender to upload an electronic information data packet within the digital library. Further said processing unit comprises filters for defining the distribution area based on the sender's instructions. Based on such instructions, the pointer associated with an electronic information data packet reaches the geographical locations included in said distribution area. Further, said processing unit is adapted for defining distribution area by making a selection of physical locations, or by selecting an area on a map, or by selecting a perimeter around a physical location.
  • In a further embodiment according to the present invention, the processing unit of said system allows the sender to define filters for defining the distribution area by demographic statistics such as statistics on average income, or nationality majority, or by statistics generated by the addressee's preferences such as existing or previously defined filters (for example: the type of service, product or shop) or business statistics. By applying such a selection criteria, the sender makes sure that the information data packet reaches a specific target group.
  • Accordingly, the processing unit is adapted for running the query retrieving pointers as a function of the sender's instruction associated with stored data packets.
  • For an easier retrieve of information, the digital library comprises means for classifying the electronic information data packets. In a further embodiment, the method classifies the electronic information data packets relative to content, such classifications including: shopping, leisure, restaurants, events, or file extension, or size, or time stamp (time availability), or a combination thereof.
  • For facilitating ease of retrieval of most relevant data, the database enables storing addressee preferences relating to the classifications.
  • In a further embodiment according to the present invention, the system comprises a portal enabling an addressee to access the addressee interface by input of his physical mailbox address, or its geographical physical mailbox coordinates, or by selecting his physical mailbox on a map.
  • In a further embodiment according to the present invention, when such addressee wants to upload an electronic information data packet or when said addressee defines filters on the addressee interface, the system requires input of his/her credentials. Such credentials are selected from a group comprising: an existing e-mail account (such as: Gmail, Yahoo mail, etc.) or an existing account (such as: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.) or a method of authenticating the place of residence, such as: by sending a code or a password through conventional paper mail, such a code or a word being used as authentication upon the following access of the interface.
  • In a further embodiment, the system according to the present invention comprises means for enabling an addressee to react on the content of an electronic information data packet or request further electronic or physical information (coupon, paper brochure, etc.) on an electronic information data packet. The sender of the electronic information data packet can include such a possibility through the defined instructions.
  • The present invention is further directed to a computer-readable medium containing: a database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID, a digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer, a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID, means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  • EXAMPLE 1:
  • The present invention optimizes various interactions between a virtual mailbox and a physical mailbox as described below.
  • In the context of this example, the virtual mailbox is to be understood as the web based addressee interface based on the physical location of a physical mailbox.
  • In order to view the content of this addressee interface a personal and/or collective address is required. This can be a simple 2-click registration on a web-page identifying the addressee. Such addressee interface address might exist for a few seconds up to infinity. The legal user of the personal and/or collective address is referred to as "addressee".
  • An addressee interface is to be understood as a virtual mailbox for which "personal and/or collective addressee rights" exist, like a home post box, personal delivery point, shared delivery point or whatever other physical deliveries point. Such addressee rights might exist for a few seconds up to infinity. The legal owner of the addressee rights is referred to as "address owner". The ownership of the addressee interface might belong to the address owner or might belong to a third party that has granted the legal addressee rights of the physical deliveries point to the address owner.
  • The addressee and the address owner can be one and the same or can be different. If they are different they should act collective. Together they are referred to as "address managers".
  • All optimized interactions require an upfront singular and/or repeated address manager's approval of the registration of the link between the virtual mailbox and the geographical location of the physical mailbox.
  • The approval as mentioned above is to be understood as the process between the moment the address managers decide to legally identify them and the actual registration in whatever appropriate infrastructure.
  • The registration will exist for specific transactions and for a period as defined by the address managers during the registration process. The registration can be cancelled by the address owner or by the addressee or by a third party with legal rights to intervene in this matter.
  • The present invention provides digital platform is constructed to upload and distribute messages as well as other information to a community with which the addressee or address managers only have geographical connection.
  • This opens the possibility for a digital geographical communication with an audience of which the sender only knows that the geographical location of the target addressees.
  • The connection by portal registration will allow the addressee able to check their addressee interface and to drop messages to the people as a digital alternative to a note in their real mailbox, but to a broader audience - e.g. to all addresses in their street, village, or a defined circle around their physical location. The type of messages can be just notes, invitations, as well as news or commercial.
  • This innovative digital service responds to a need of individuals on occasions where they want to reach other people in the neighbourhood. For global brands, retailers and government the use of this service can result into large savings on communication costs.
  • The service will allow users to choose for virtual marketing folders instead of physical folders from brands. This choice will avoid physical delivery at physical mailbox. This is guided by the service thru mobile/portable notification of the delivery boy.
  • As said above, by introduction of their address (street, nr and city) on the portal, users will be able to check and read the content of their addressee interface. A more detailed registration will allow them to distribute messages, invitations, news, etc. to other people in their neighbourhood (or further away) as a digital alternative to a note in the physical mailbox.
  • The present invention can also be integrated into other internet services that are more commonly used and can provide an overview of the virtual mailbox content at regular intervals to the social network of choice (like Facebook, Twitter,...), to a personal email address or he can opt to use the present invention for mobile devices to consult his addressee interface.
  • The back-end is driven by an SQL database of all geographical addresses linked to a virtual mailbox. It is equipped with all user interactions, reporting and metrics tools, payment transactions and an API to connect other 3rd party services. The front-end can be accessed by a webbrowser or a mobile app for iOS, Android and Windows RT.
  • EXAMPLE OF BUSINESS -MODEL
  • The basic model of the service is 'freemium'. All messages for non-commercial use within a fixed time-frame and to a limited number of users may be free of charge. This means uploading and distributing information may be free to use for most senders and small non-profit organizations.
  • There may a charge for all commercial messages based on a payment system with credits. It consists of a limited drop cost for delivery to the addressee interfaces and a pay-per view cost based on real view data.
  • Potential business opportunities:
    • revenue tick when folder is consulted in addressee interface.
    • revenue tick when physical delivery is avoided by the notification of the delivery boy
    • mining of virtual folder reading by address owner and forwarding this info
    • use of mining info for physical delivery (samples, ...)
    • bundling of virtual folders
    • option of address owner to ask for physical delivery
    • option for address owner to get virtual mailbox notification when certain "commercial actions" are in the folder
    • option for publishers to distribute to address owners in geographical community
    EXAMPLE OF ADDING A QUERY:
  • A sender of query according to the present invention accesses a web page and identifies himself through his physical address corresponding to his personal identification. Upon accessing the option for providing a query, the system requests a further check through an existing log-in information or through a physical letter accompanied by a code that is sent to that particular physical address.
  • Once the check is performed, the system recognizes the personal identification as allowed to provide a query.
  • The sender defines a name for the query and, in case of an announcement, the sender is able to add a text message in a designated space. If there are documents to be attached to the query, the system according to the present invention allows the sender to attach such document no matter their format.
  • In a further step, the sender is asked about the time duration that will be associated with such a query, the sender being able to select either an end date through manual input of the date in an indicated format or a drop-down type of calendar, or by selecting a time frame like for example a month, two months, half a year or so forth, or a start date and an end date though a drop-down type of calendar.
  • Depending on the content of the query, the sender is able to select the category under which it will be stored by the system.
  • The sender of the query will further define the geographical area associated with such a query by choosing a parameter selected from the group comprising: a street name, or a postal code, or a city, or a country or a combination thereof. Another possibility of selecting the geographical area associated with the query is directly delimiting on a map provided by the system by using tools like: drawing a line or a circle or a non-defined shape on said map. The sender can further instruct the system to consider the addresses retrieved from the database within the selected geographical area, or the sender can further define a radius around the defined geographical area. The system will then consider all the addresses retrieved from the database within the radius defined and the ones within the selected geographical area as able to see the query.
  • As a result, when a person accesses the webpage and inputs such address, the system will check if such an address is within the identified geographical area. In case the check is positive, the system makes the query visible for him/her. If the check is negative, the query is not visible for the person.
  • EXAMPLE OF CREDIT CALCULATION:
  • After a sender of an electronic information data packet adds a query though the method identified above, the system counts the number of addresses included in the defined geographical area and at the same time makes them visible on a map.
  • Based on the number of identified addresses, the system according to the present invention determines the number of credits the sender will have to have on his identification page. In case the sender has no credits on his identification page, the system will require the total amount of credits to be added and locked for that query throughout the selected time duration. In case the sender has on his identification page an amount of credits, the system will subtract from the available number the amount approximated for the query and lock them and in case the amount is not sufficient, will ask the user to add the rest on his identification page.
  • In a further step, the system may be able to approximate the number of views for such a query by using a statistic function applied on previous queries from the same category, preferably from the same area, but it should be understood that such statistic functions can be applied in different geographical areas as well.
  • Based on such approximation, the system asks the sender to lock the amount of credits corresponding to the approximation.
  • Once a person identifying himself/herself with a physical address within the selected geographical area views the query, the system increments a counter and subtracts a credit. At the end of the time interval associated with the query, the system creates an overview and updates the identification page of the sender.
  • It is to be understood that the counter starts from 0 for each new query added.
  • In another embodiment according to the present invention, the counter can be a dedicated counter for each sender, including information on all queries added by said sender. In such a case the system according to the present invention creates an overview of the credits over a determined period of time considering the complete set of queries or each individual query, or over a specific geographic area like for example: over a country, a province, a city, a neighborhood or a street.
  • Preferably, the sender is able to select the type of counter and analysis to be performed on his/her identification page.

Claims (15)

  1. A method for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising:
    a. storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID in a database,
    b. storing a collection of electronic information data packets in a digital library, each data packet associated with a pointer,
    c. running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID,
    d. creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the physical locations are physical mailbox addresses or geographical physical mailbox coordinates.
  3. A method according to any of the previous claims, wherein a stored information data packet comprises an electronic information data packet uploaded by a sender and the sender's instructions defining the distribution area.
  4. A method according to claim 3, wherein said query retrieves pointers as a function of the sender's instruction associated with stored data packets.
  5. A method according to any of the previous claims, wherein said query retrieves pointers as a function of the addressee's preferences and/or said addressee interface stores addressee preferences relating to electronic information data packets classification.
  6. A method according to any of the previous claims, wherein an addressee accesses the addressee interface by input of his physical mailbox address, or its geographical physical mailbox coordinates, or by selecting his physical mailbox on a map.
  7. A method according to any of the previous claims, wherein the addressee reacts on the content of an electronic information data packet or requests further electronic or physical information regarding an electronic information data packet from the sender of said electronic information data packet.
  8. A system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address comprising:
    a. A database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID
    b. A digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer,
    c. A processing unit for running a query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID
    d. Means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
  9. A system according to claim 8, wherein said database comprises means for retrieving a collection of physical locations from a cadastral database.
  10. A system according to claims 8 or 9, wherein a sender is enabled to upload an electronic information data packet within the digital library and the processing unit comprises filters for defining the distribution area based on the sender's instructions.
  11. A system according to claims 8 to 10, wherein said processing unit is adapted for defining a distribution area by making a selection of physical locations, or by selecting an area on a map, or by selecting a perimeter around a physical location.
  12. A system according to claims 8 to 11, wherein said processing unit comprises filters for defining the distribution area by demographic statistics, or by statistics generated by the addressee's preferences.
  13. A system according to claims 8 to 12, wherein said processing unit is adapted for running the query retrieving pointers as a function of the sender's instruction associated with stored data packets.
  14. A system according to claims 8 to 13, wherein the system further comprises a portal enabling an addressee to access the addressee interface by input of his physical mailbox address, or its geographical physical mailbox coordinates, or by selecting his physical mailbox on a map.
  15. A computer-readable medium containing:
    a. A database for storing a collection of physical locations each associated with a physical location ID
    b. A digital library for storing a collection of electronic information data packets, each data packet associated with a pointer,
    c. A query for retrieving pointers as a function of the physical location associated with an addressee's physical location ID
    d. Means for creating an addressee interface for accessing the electronic information data packets associated with the retrieved pointers.
EP14172234.8A 2014-06-12 2014-06-12 A method and system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address Not-in-force EP2955879B1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP14172234.8A EP2955879B1 (en) 2014-06-12 2014-06-12 A method and system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address
BE2015/0170A BE1025461B1 (en) 2014-06-12 2015-06-12 A method and system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address
US14/738,141 US20150365367A1 (en) 2014-06-12 2015-06-12 Method and System for Providing Electronic Information to a Virtual Mailbox Based on a Geographical Address

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP14172234.8A EP2955879B1 (en) 2014-06-12 2014-06-12 A method and system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2955879A1 true EP2955879A1 (en) 2015-12-16
EP2955879B1 EP2955879B1 (en) 2018-07-18

Family

ID=50942123

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP14172234.8A Not-in-force EP2955879B1 (en) 2014-06-12 2014-06-12 A method and system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (1) US20150365367A1 (en)
EP (1) EP2955879B1 (en)
BE (1) BE1025461B1 (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2017119831A1 (en) * 2016-01-07 2017-07-13 Simul Design Ab A method of delivering an item of mail to a digital mailbox
WO2017133539A1 (en) * 2016-02-02 2017-08-10 腾讯科技(深圳)有限公司 Service data processing method, device and system

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20160125031A1 (en) * 2014-10-29 2016-05-05 Umm Al-Qura University Method and apparatus for retrieving and organizing physical addresses
FR3129558B1 (en) * 2021-11-23 2023-10-27 Khalid Amini Means of content distribution, such as digital mailboxes

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2002009353A2 (en) * 2000-07-24 2002-01-31 Weatherbank, Inc. Interactive weather advisory system
US20070043846A1 (en) 2005-08-17 2007-02-22 Canada Post Corporation Electronic content management systems and methods
TW200935258A (en) * 2008-02-05 2009-08-16 Maction Technologies Inc Announcement and message discussion method incorporating map information system
WO2012174650A1 (en) * 2011-06-23 2012-12-27 Gone Fishing Consulting Ltd. Method for geographically targeting online advertising campaigns

Family Cites Families (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6597983B2 (en) * 1996-08-22 2003-07-22 Wgrs Licensing Company, Llc Geographic location multiple listing service identifier and method of assigning and using the same
US6732120B1 (en) * 1998-09-03 2004-05-04 Geojet Information Solutions Inc. System and method for processing and display of geographical data
US7478140B2 (en) * 2000-03-09 2009-01-13 Pitney Bowes Software Inc. System and method for sending electronic mail and parcel delivery notification using recipient's identification information
US20020099606A1 (en) * 2000-11-20 2002-07-25 Wolf Shlagman Radius advertising system and method
US7559471B2 (en) * 2003-12-01 2009-07-14 Lockheed Martin Corporation Postal stamp tracking system and method
US8229467B2 (en) * 2006-01-19 2012-07-24 Locator IP, L.P. Interactive advisory system
US20090005901A1 (en) * 2007-06-28 2009-01-01 Pitney Bowes Incorporated Payment system for delivery services
WO2010030392A2 (en) * 2008-09-12 2010-03-18 Dimitris Achlioptas Interpersonal spacetime interaction system
US9105016B2 (en) * 2011-09-16 2015-08-11 United States Postal Service Systems and methods for creating and using a hybrid-digital mailbox

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2002009353A2 (en) * 2000-07-24 2002-01-31 Weatherbank, Inc. Interactive weather advisory system
US20070043846A1 (en) 2005-08-17 2007-02-22 Canada Post Corporation Electronic content management systems and methods
TW200935258A (en) * 2008-02-05 2009-08-16 Maction Technologies Inc Announcement and message discussion method incorporating map information system
WO2012174650A1 (en) * 2011-06-23 2012-12-27 Gone Fishing Consulting Ltd. Method for geographically targeting online advertising campaigns

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2017119831A1 (en) * 2016-01-07 2017-07-13 Simul Design Ab A method of delivering an item of mail to a digital mailbox
WO2017133539A1 (en) * 2016-02-02 2017-08-10 腾讯科技(深圳)有限公司 Service data processing method, device and system

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
BE1025461A1 (en) 2019-03-04
BE1025461B1 (en) 2019-03-11
US20150365367A1 (en) 2015-12-17
EP2955879B1 (en) 2018-07-18

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20210258277A1 (en) System and method for location and time based social networking
AU2014205387B2 (en) Systems and methods for access-controlled interactions
US9965462B2 (en) Systems and methods for identifying and recording the sentiment of a message, posting, or other online communication using an explicit sentiment identifier
US20100082427A1 (en) System and Method for Context Enhanced Ad Creation
US20120284333A1 (en) Collection and analysis of location data from location-aware mobile devices on a network
US20090319361A1 (en) Web-based communication system
JP5245023B1 (en) Information processing apparatus, information processing method, information processing program, and recording medium on which information processing program is recorded
EP2955879B1 (en) A method and system for providing electronic information to a virtual mailbox based on a geographical address
US20110173298A1 (en) Method for Organizing Business Card
US20210328966A1 (en) Systems and Methods for Providing an Online Platform for Facilitating a Communication Connection Between an Individual and an Elected Official
CA2801087A1 (en) System and method for managing a messaging campaign within an enterprise
US20140372189A1 (en) System and method for consumer-based storing, retrieving and transmitting of promotional content to other consumers
US20150378533A1 (en) Geosocial network for book reading and user interface thereof
RU2368008C1 (en) Information system
Silnov Enhancing the accuracy of mobile geo targeting
Macdonald et al. A Study of Outlinks Contained in Tweets Mentioning Rumiyah
JP5382753B1 (en) Information provision and collection system using communication terminals
Tantothai et al. mipMAP: A mobile application for proximate social network communication
JP5775994B2 (en) Related information providing system and related information providing program
JP2002197206A (en) Information distribution system and information distribution method
JP2002366464A (en) Portable telephone marketing system and its program
KR20130086023A (en) An information offer service system and way of an object-oriented contiguity approach format
JP2007200001A (en) Sales promotion intermediation system
KR20120118842A (en) An information offer service system and way of an object-oriented contiguity approach format
JP2003124972A (en) Information delivery system, its method, and program where its processing is described

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20160616

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

TPAC Observations filed by third parties

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNTIPA

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20161221

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20180118

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1020537

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20180815

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602014028577

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: FP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1020537

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20180718

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181018

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181118

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181018

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181019

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

RAP2 Party data changed (patent owner data changed or rights of a patent transferred)

Owner name: POSTBUZZ NV

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602014028577

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20190423

PLAA Information modified related to event that no opposition was filed

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009299DELT

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

R26N No opposition filed (corrected)

Effective date: 20190423

RAP2 Party data changed (patent owner data changed or rights of a patent transferred)

Owner name: ROULARTA MEDIA GROUP NV

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20190423

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190612

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190630

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20190630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20181118

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20200618

Year of fee payment: 7

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20200619

Year of fee payment: 7

Ref country code: LU

Payment date: 20200618

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Payment date: 20200625

Year of fee payment: 7

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20200625

Year of fee payment: 7

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20200625

Year of fee payment: 7

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20140612

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R079

Ref document number: 602014028577

Country of ref document: DE

Free format text: PREVIOUS MAIN CLASS: H04L0012580000

Ipc: H04L0051000000

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 602014028577

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20210701

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20210612

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20210630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210612

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210612

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220101

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210701

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20180718

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210630